Preview: Perth Glory v Brisbane Roar

With opening nerves out of the way the focus will now be to turn first-round wins into momentum with, potentially, a firm grip on top spot up for grabs.

Following a modest 2015/16 season, Perth Glory suddenly find themselves top of the ladder, albeit by the slimmest of margins on goal difference. Indeed, the season could barely have started better with their 4-2 win over Western Sydney Wanderers marked by a 14-second striker from Catlin Doeglas – the second fastest in the history of the Westfield W-League.

Glory captain Sam Kerr was at her dynamic best with two second-half strikes. The spine of the team also looks stronger than last season following the addition of some international imports. Last season the Glory won 2-0 in Brisbane with one of those imports, American midfielder Vanessa DiBernardo, scoring the goal of the season.

The Roar, of course, are underestimated at one’s peril. While their squad doesn’t quite boast the same star-power as years gone by, their 2-1 opening-round win over Sydney FC proves the Roar mean business. And if that result is not enough of a warning, this weekend will see the debut of Denmark defender Nina Frausing-Pedersen and the very welcome return of Matildas ace Tameka Butt.